Laurel Hill Association Chestnut Preserve

South Street, Stockbridge, MA

About Chestnut Preserve

Chestnut Preserve, managed by the Laurel Hill Association, presents visitors with expansive views of Berkshire wetland habitats. The preserve has two fields that provide family-friendly scenic views over the marsh. These fields are perfect for wildlife watching because many biological communities thrive in this environment. Visitors will likely encounter migratory birds in spring and fall as they stop in Western Massachusetts along their journey. Then, during summertime, the sound of frogs will emanate through lily pads and cattails. A picnic table rests on one of the fields, allowing visitors to relax while looking for wildlife and gazing over the wetlands. Dogs will also enjoy this preserve as there is ample running space.

Chestnut Preserve derives its name from an effort to revive the American Chestnut. Before an invasive fungus decimated its population in the early 1900s, this tree dominated forests on the East Coast. 

The park is off northbound Route 7, just north of Clark Road. A short dirt road will bring visitors to both fields and the picnic table. Dogs must be on leash.